At Plat Douet, we believe that regular and punctual attendance is vital for every child’s learning, progress and wellbeing. Being in school every day ensures that children don’t miss out on valuable learning experiences, friendships, and opportunities to thrive academically and socially.

Why Attendance Matters

Children who attend school regularly are more likely to:

• Achieve better academic results
• Develop strong friendships and social skills
• Build good routines for later life
• Feel confident and secure in their learning environment

Even short periods of absence can lead to gaps in learning and make it harder for children to catch up.

School Times

• Gates open: 8.30am
• Classroom doors open: 8.30am
• Registers close: 8.45am

If your child arrives after 8:45am they must report to the school office and will be marked as late.

Reporting an Absence

If your child is unwell or unable to attend school for any reason, please contact the school office by 8.45am on each day of absence by phone or email.  You must give a clear reason for the absence. If no reason is provided, the absence may be marked as unauthorised.

Authorised vs Unauthorised Absence

Absences are only authorised at the Headteacher’s discretion. Acceptable reasons may include:

• Illness (though frequent or long absences may require medical evidence)
• Medical or dental appointments that cannot be scheduled outside school hours
• Religious observance
• Exceptional family circumstances (at the Headteacher’s discretion)

Holidays during term time are not authorised unless in exceptional circumstances. These must be requested in writing in advance via the school office.

Unauthorised absences may be referred to the Education Welfare Service, in line with the Jersey School Attendance Policy.

Lateness

Being on time is important. Arriving late can disrupt your child’s start to the day and affect the learning of others. Persistent lateness is monitored and may be followed up with a formal meeting or referral.

How We Support Good Attendance

• Celebrating high attendance in assemblies and newsletters
• Regular communication with parents about attendance concerns
• Working closely with the Education Welfare Officer where needed
• Offering early support if your child’s attendance becomes a concern

Jersey Attendance Expectations

As part of the Government of Jersey’s School Attendance Policy, parents and carers are legally responsible for ensuring that their child attends school regularly and on time. You can read more about this here.

Let’s Work Together

If you are finding it hard to get your child into school or there are any issues affecting their attendance, please speak to us. We are here to help and can work with you to put support in place early.